Gas hot water heater not constantly hot

[freebird62]

I have a gas hot water heater. The pilot light remains lit. However when the water isn't used, it seems to cool down. For example. My son and I take showers 12 hours apart from each other. Each time the water is lukewarm. I can keep just the hot tap on and get a shower, but it is not hot in the least. When we were dripping the faucets to keep from freezing, the water remained hot. What can I do to get hot water when I want hot water with out having to wait? Once the water is running, like to do dishes and just after a shower the water is heated to the proper temperature. What could be the problem?

[Greg]

It sounds like the thermostat could be getting a little funky. You could also try draining the tank down and see if there is any sediment in the bottom.

Depending on the age of the heater it may be time to replace it. Gas units should be good for 15 years give or take.

Greg